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Our 30th wedding anniversary voyage aboard the Discovery Princess Cruise Ship had been a fantastic adventure blended with a travel writer’s conference – making it a West Coast visit of a lifetime. We were spending a few days in British Columbia, taking the cruise, stopping for fun at a few ports to experience the hospitality of a few amazing communities, and ending up in Palm Springs before heading back home.
I know – I have the best job ever and was tickled that we could arrange our calendars to allow for Mr. Cheesehead to join me this time. We may have added a few things that I normally wouldn’t have when I travel solo.
Our Ziplining Adventure got a Rain Check
As we docked in Victoria and felt the cool drizzle slowly turning into a full-blown rainstorm, our plans for a thrilling ziplining excursion began to look more like a soggy mess. We barely made it off the ship and to the first gift shop before throwing in the towel (literally) and deciding to retreat.
But don’t worry, folks – this story has a happy twist! Our wet and bedraggled selves stumbled upon a glimmer of hope at the spa desk. With some luck, they were able to squeeze us in for a couples massage that very afternoon. Talk about a silver lining on a raincloud!
A Rainy Day Detour: From Ziplining to Relaxing Massages
We headed back to our cabin, put on dry clothes, and grabbed a quick lunch. I know my husband had only had one real massage in his life, and it hadn’t been a great experience. God bless him for going along with my kind of crazy and being a willing participant.
I Had Done a Little Spa Research
When I originally planned to incorporate a spa treatment, I was surprised at what I learned. Named “Best Spa on a Cruise Ship” by Spafinder Wellness 365™, the Lotus Spa offers a variety of treatments to suit your needs. Whether you want to indulge in a facial, a massage, or a detoxifying wrap, the experienced therapists will help you feel your best.
Doesn’t that all sound cool? I was hooked and kind of excited that we would be able to check it out for ourselves! I knew we were going to be “taking the waters” at an incredible spa in Palm Springs in roughly another week and hoped this experience would prime Mr. Cheesehead for excessive relaxation. (Um, if that isn’t a thing, it should be!)
What Kind of Massage to Pick?
I held all kinds of sadness that my amazing man had only had one real massage experience in his six decades on this earth. And yes, he is much older than me – I am the young trophy wife. (hush!)
So, his one complaint from that time was it hurt more than relaxed him. Most guys have a difficult time talking about what they do or don’t like – it may get a tad weird with some stranger touching their body. That leaves interpretation up to us ladies. (sigh)
So, the Lotus Spa offers a variety of massage therapies. From hot stone massages to Swedish massages, there’s a massage therapy that’s perfect for everyone. We went with the Couple’s Massage but had to narrow down what TYPE we wanted. Here are some of the massage therapies you can choose from:
- Swedish Massage
- Deep Tissue Massage
- Aroma Stone Therapy Massage
- Hot Stone Massage
I think the Deep Tissue was his other experience so that was out. While I love hot rocks? He probably would have found them a tad too hot – and uncomfortable. Smelly stuff? That is usually a no-go for me as I get migraines. Synthetic scents can flip me over the edge.
Swedish Massage it was to be then, but I kind of feel that no matter which treatment you choose, you’ll leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Just narrow it down like we did.
And So it Started
As we arrived at the Lotus Spa, seemingly still shaking off raindrops, we couldn’t help but feel like we’d stumbled onto something wonderful. We were handed those quirky blue wristbands, shuffled into our respective changing rooms, and anxiously looked forward to reuniting in the “comfort room.”
I knew he was a little apprehensive and wanted to hustle myself to that comfort room ASAP and guide him through it all.
In my changing room, I found a robe waiting for me in a locker that my little blue wristband would lock for me. If you followed my spa experiences, you remember my apprehension at the sizing of robes. I wrote Silent Suffering after something that happened on a visit to Texas.
A little unsure about the robe size, and not wanting to find out it was too small after trying it on, I decided to ask the attendant if they had any plus-sized robes. Her response? A heartwarming and unexpected compliment, which made me smile from ear to ear.
“Sweetie, you certainly don’t need a plus-sized robe.” With newfound confidence, I slipped into the robe, only to discover it was roomier than I’d imagined. Sweet surprise, indeed! She was correct.
Reunited and it Feels So Good
Finally, my husband and I rendezvoused in the comfort room, where he was already filling out consultation forms. I grabbed him a glass of lemon-infused water like a pro and sat next to him to fill out my own set of forms. Our Thai masseuses soon arrived and guided us to our room.
They each took one of us and reviewed our answers. I was impressed at how she would question something, feel my back or arm, and then ask a question or two. Surprise – surprise, she could tell I was a writer who may or may not spend a little too much time on my laptop! The next thing we knew – they left us to disrobe and get comfy on our massage tables.
Table Comfort and Expertise: Setting the Stage for Bliss
Now, let’s talk about those tables – sturdy, wide enough so you didn’t feel like you were about to take a tumble, and incredibly comfortable. I would realize down that they were also hydraulic (or something like that – I was too blissed out to know for sure) as I was lowered a bit to accommodate her height some time during the face-down section of the treatment.
As the soothing music began, the warm wet towels found their place on the bottom of our feet, and our massage experience took flight. It was like our cares were floating away on the notes of a melody.
The pièce de résistance? Aromatherapy-laden towels under our faces, urging us to take three deep, slow breaths. It was just enough scent to relax without overpowering. Then came the gentle dry brushing, a sensation that I can only describe wow. I have never had that at a massage before Keep in mind that I get about two massages a month, for the last 30 or so years.. so it was a first in like 700 plus massages.
And honestly, that’s where my memory fades into 75 minutes of sheer relaxation and happiness.
They Were Just Getting Warmed Up
With unique techniques and warm oils, the occasional sigh of contentment from my husband, and a sense of tranquility enveloping us, our massage was nothing short of divine. As the soft music played on, the gentle hum of the engines of the ship as they engaged to take us back out to sea, I recall a few stroke techniques that I had never felt before.
At the end of our time, we were both face-up and had our hands placed in each other’s, to the tune of a small chime. This, sadly, marked the end of our celestial journey.
Final Thoughts
In the end, our spa experience turned out to be one of the highlights of our cruise, surpassing even the ziplining adventure we had initially planned. (And I love to zipline!) While Victoria was rainy and cold outside, we emerged from that spa warm, relaxed, and rejuvenated, ready to continue celebrating our 30th anniversary in style.
Here’s to the unexpected twists that make life’s adventures all the more memorable, and to the Lotus Spa for turning a rainy day into an unforgettable anniversary treat.
Policies and Guidelines
Let’s get down to the details! When visiting the spa aboard the Discovery Princess, there are a few policies and guidelines to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Age Restrictions
Guests must be at least 18 years old to use the spa facilities, with the exception of the salon services, which are available to guests 16 years and older when accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Attire
Robes, slippers, and towels are provided for guests to wear during their spa treatments. However, it is recommended that guests wear comfortable clothing and shoes when visiting the spa, as they may need to walk through public areas of the ship to get to the spa.
Reservations
It is recommended that guests make reservations for spa treatments as soon as possible, as appointments tend to fill up quickly. Guests can make reservations online through the Medallion APP or by visiting the Lotus Spa once onboard the ship.
–>Book EARLY if you want your choice of timing. I had given up on this idea before our cruise had even left port as I knew our schedule was ending up pretty full.
Cancellation Policy
If you need to cancel your spa appointment, it is recommended that you do so at least 24 hours in advance to avoid a cancellation fee. If you cancel less than 24 hours in advance or do not show up for your appointment, you may be charged the full price of the treatment. Let’s face it, that is just plain considerate. These people make tips – and lose out on income when someone is a thoughtless no-show.
By following these policies and guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable spa experience aboard the Discovery Princess.
Frequently Asked Questions
What services are available at the Lotus Spa on board the Discovery Princess?
The Lotus Spa on board the Discovery Princess offers a wide range of services to help you relax and rejuvenate. You can choose from various spa treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps.
There are also salon services available, such as manicures, pedicures, and hair styling. Additionally, you can enjoy the thermal suite, which includes a variety of hot and cold experiences, such as saunas, steam rooms, and heated loungers.
What are the prices for spa treatments on Princess Cruises?
The prices for spa treatments on Princess Cruises vary depending on the treatment and the ship. You can check the Lotus Spa menu on board the Discovery Princess for specific pricing information. It’s worth noting that Princess Cruises often offers spa specials and packages that can help you save money on multiple treatments.
Which Princess cruise ships have a Lotus Spa?
The Lotus Spa is available on many Princess cruise ships, including the Discovery Princess, Majestic Princess, and Regal Princess. However, not all Princess cruise ships have a Lotus Spa, so it’s important to check the ship’s amenities before booking your cruise.
Where is the Lotus Spa located on the Discovery Princess?
The Lotus Spa on board the Discovery Princess is located on deck 5, near the front of the ship. You can easily find it by following the signs or asking a crew member for directions.
How much does a massage cost on a Princess cruise ship?
The cost of a massage on a Princess cruise ship varies depending on the type of massage and the ship. However, prices may be different on other Princess cruise ships, so it’s important to check the Lotus Spa menu for specific pricing information.
